As the volatile Vera Duckworth in Britain's flagship soap opera Coronation Street, Liz Dawn became a national television institution. Prior to acting, she had operated the working men's club circuit for over twenty years as a singer and comedienne. She was first spotted by Alan Parker who cast her for a TV commercial, and Liz was soon inundated with offers of work. As well as appearing in memorable plays such as Barry Hines' Speech Day and Colin Welland's Leeds United (both for the BBC), Liz was seen regularly as a waitress in Granada's The Wheeltappers and Shunters Club, and appeared in numerous episodes of Crown Court. Shortly before joining Coronation Street, she played comedian Larry Grayson's neighbour in his popular comedy show, and also featured as a guest character in the likes of Z Cars, Selwyn and Open All Hours.
Liz first appeared as Vera in 1974 on a semi-regular basis, and became a perminate fixture two years later. With her idle husband Jack (played by William Tarmey), Vera became one of the most popular characters in Coronation Street history, and her portrayal of the feisty battleaxe won her an army of fans. Liz was also the subject of This Is Your Life, had a hit record with William Tarmey, and later the singer Joe Longthorne. In 2000, she was awarded the MBE for her services to charity, and was also made the Lady Mayoress of Leeds.
Liz left Coronation Street in 2008 due to ill health, and has continued to work for charity. A keen and active supporter of the Labour Party, she also still makes the occasional television appearance.